RENO, Nev. (KRNV & MyNews4.com) -- Despite the government shutdown and national park closures across the nation’s capital, 38 veterans with Honor Flight Nevada headed to their memorials over the weekend, determined to see the sites dedicated to their service.

Veterans visited the WWII, Korean and Vietnam Memorials. The group also visited Arlington National Cemetery where Honor Flight was asked to lay the ceremonial wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown.

Access to the Iwo Jima Marine Memoral was block by a road barrier.

The United States Air Force band also hosted the veterans for a concert where several members of the group had a chance to dance.

The day ended with a special dinner with personal letters to the veterans from family, friends and school children from Veterans Elementary in Reno. The messages were received with laughs and tears.

Honor Flight Nevada is a non-profit organization that uses public donations to send veterans to Washington D.C. to see their memorials at no cost to the veterans. You can find more information on the program including applications for a vet to fly on the next Honor Flight, how to donate, or become a guardian on the next trip by going to:

The opportunity to accompany these true American Heros was priceless. Thanks to Dean Heller, Mark Amodei, Joe Heck, and Steven Horsford for assuring these men and women the ability to see the monuments they more than paid for with their service, their pride, and in some cases their lives. The fact that Harry Reid not only didn't show up but didn't even send a representative speaks volumes about his thoughts of our veterans. Thank you again for the ability to go....John K